The exclusive gathering convened key players from global investment firms, members of the Nigerian diaspora, and corporate executives for a candid dialogue on Nigeria’s macroeconomic outlook and pathways to sustainable, inclusive growth.
CBN Governor Signals Policy Clarity and Market Discipline
In a fireside chat with Nobel Prize-winning economist Dr. James Robinson, CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso addressed Nigeria’s macroeconomic recovery strategy, emphasizing disciplined monetary policy, transparency, and investor-focused reforms. Cardoso acknowledged the fragile confidence Nigeria faced but asserted that the CBN is forging a path defined by stability and reform.
"We inherited a crisis of confidence, but we chose a different path. We’re not turning back," Cardoso stated to strong applause. He stressed that strategic collaboration between the CBN, capital market institutions, and the diaspora community is vital to rebuilding trust and mobilizing long-term capital for economic transformation.
Highlighting Reforms and Market Readiness
Muhammad Sani Abdullahi, Deputy Governor for Economic Policy, provided a detailed overview of Nigeria’s recent financial transformation efforts, including foreign exchange reforms, enhanced market governance, and steps to improve the investment climate. The presentation reinforced Nigeria’s renewed commitment to macroeconomic discipline and global financial integration.
A key feature of the event was a panel discussion titled “Repricing Nigeria: Assessing the Scope for Sustained Change,” which brought together senior executives from JPMorgan Chase, Citi, Standard Chartered, and Jadara Capital Partners. The panel explored opportunities and risks in the Nigerian investment landscape, underscoring the importance of consistent policy signals, structural reforms, and institutional strengthening.
Temi Popoola, Group Managing Director/CEO of the NGX Group, moderated the forum’s flagship panel and highlighted the exchange’s role in facilitating Nigeria’s financial evolution.
"Today’s dialogue marks a pivotal step in reshaping global perceptions of Nigeria’s investment story,” Popoola noted. “The candid engagement between policymakers, market operators, and investors reflects the real progress Nigeria is making. NGX Group remains committed to supporting reforms that strengthen market structures, drive innovation, and accelerate economic growth.”
Investors Call for Sustained Momentum
While attendees applauded Nigeria’s renewed reform drive, many investors stressed that maintaining momentum will be essential. They pointed to the need for consistent FX management, reduced regulatory complexity, clearer strategies around non-oil revenue generation, and improvements in the ease of doing business. Transparent communication and reduced transaction costs were also flagged as critical to building lasting investor trust.
Optimism with a Note of Caution
The forum concluded on an optimistic note, with participants expressing cautious confidence in Nigeria’s economic trajectory. The consensus: if the current reform agenda continues with consistency and transparency, Nigeria could soon reclaim its place as one of Africa’s most dynamic investment frontiers.
By taking its message directly to the world’s financial capital, Nigeria signaled not just its willingness to engage — but its readiness to lead.